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'Holding The Man' To Finally Hit The Big Screen

Finally, An Australian Love Story For Everyone

It's the mid-70's in Melbourne, Australia, and Tim Conigrave has fallen head over heels for the captain of his school's footy team.

Such is the beginning of one of Australia's most enduring love stories -- and one that has taken 20 years to hit the big screen.

"Holding The Man" follows the true-life love affair of Conigrave and John Caleo, starting from when they met as teenagers at Melbourne's prestigious Xavier College.

Both men died from AIDS-related illnesses in the early 90's, but not before Conigrave penned his memoir, which was published by Penguin in 1995. The story -- widely hailed as Australia's answer to "Brokeback Mountain" -- was adapted into an award-winning play in 2006 before now, finally, making its way to the big screen.

Given the current national debate taking place in Australia surrounding marriage equality, it could be argued 20 years was well worth the wait.

Check out our interview with director Neil Armfield and the film's stars, Ryan Corr and Craig Stott, below.

"Holding The Man" will hit Australian cinemas on Thursday, 27 August.

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